Costa Rica on alert: Tropical wave 47 causes massive flooding
Costa Rica is facing a critical situation following the passage of tropical wave number 47, a phenomenon that has left more than 400 homes flooded. The intense rainfall has mobilized relief agencies, which are maintaining strict vigilance due to the latent risk of further flooding and landslides in various areas of the country.
Alejandro Picado, president of the National Commission for Risk Prevention and Emergency Response (CNE), pointed out that the sectors most affected by the storm include Fraijanes, Sarapiquí, Pococí, Guatuso, and Liberia. In these locations, emergency crews are working hard to evaluate the structural impact and provide direct assistance to those affected.
Emergency response and temporary shelters
As a protective measure, authorities set up temporary shelters to safeguard families who lost safe access to their homes. Currently, six people remain under protection in the shelters of Guatuso and Liberia, after suffering the effects of overflowing rivers and severe flooding in their communities.
The priority at this moment is to ensure the safety of the affected families and carry out cleaning work in sewers, in addition to inspecting bridges and roads to prevent further incidents.
National Commission for Risk Prevention and Emergency Response
Saturated soils: A latent risk
Experts’ concern is focused on soil saturation. According to technical reports, the Central Valley shows humidity levels close to 100%, while other regions exceed 80%. This condition makes areas near hillsides and riverbeds zones of high vulnerability.
- Avoid traveling during nighttime hours to reduce road risks.
- Stay alert to official announcements regarding potential thunderstorms.
- Exercise caution regarding wind gusts that could reach 80 kilometers per hour, capable of knocking down power lines and branches.
The National Meteorological Institute has reiterated its call for the population to remain alert. Atmospheric instability will persist, especially in the Pacific zone, the Central Valley, and the Northern Zone, so preventive measures remain the most effective tool to avoid major tragedies in the face of continued rainfall.
